Aaron Ramsdale shows true Arsenal colours with three-word message amid £18m transfer boost

Aaron Ramsdale has sent a heartfelt message to former Arsenal teammate Emile Smith Rowe as the goalkeeper edges closer to joining Newcastle United.

The England goalkeeper was on the move last summer as he left the Gunners to join newly-promoted Southampton in a deal worth up to £25million. The initial fee was £18million with the remaining funds available in add-ons but at least £1million of that is not available as the Saints were relegated last season.

Ramsdale has since been linked with an immediate return to the Premier League as West Ham are on the hunt for a new shot-stopper. Having lost out on the signing of James Trafford to Manchester City, Newcastle United have made a move for Ramsdale.

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As revealed by Sky Sports' Keith Downie, talks between the two parties are ongoing with Ramsdale having played under Eddie Howe at Bournemouth earlier in his career. A loan offer, which includes a buy-option, has been presented with the deal now advancing, as per the Athletic.

Mikel Arteta and Co. will be hoping that a permanent sale goes through either over the next few weeks or next summer with football.london having reported that a sell-on clause for Arsenal was placed into his Southampton contract.

Emile Smith Rowe was another player to depart recently that Arsenal could profit from as they would receive 10 per cent of any fee Fulham receive for his services.

Despite a mixed first season at Craven Cottage, having just turned 25, there is plenty of time for him to secure a big move. With that landmark date arriving for Smith Rowe on Monday, well-wishes from current and old teammates were posted with Ramsdale sending a three-word message.

Replying to Fulham's social media post, he said on his Instagramstory: "32 [red heart emoji] My man." Despite being seven years younger than the figure Ramsdale wrote, the reference does make sense as Smith Rowe wears the No.32 on his back at Fulham.

With Ramsdale and Smith Rowe the sellable assets to depart 12 months ago, the Gunners do not appear to have many more players they can part ways with for significant funds.

Having spent nearly £200million on new signings, Arsenal will want to try and raise funds through player exits especially if they wish to make a move for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze.